Nintendo Switch price and launch date revealed

Nintendo has announced that the new Nintendo Switch console will launch in the UK on Friday 3rd March at a price point of £279.99.

The package will include the main Nintendo Switch console, Joy-Con (L) and Joy-Con (R) controllers, a Joy-Con grip (to which two Joy-Con are attached and used as one controller), a set of Joy-Con wrist straps, a Nintendo Switch dock (which holds the main console and connects it to a TV), a HDMI cable and an AC adapter. Two versions of the console will be released: a version with a set of grey Joy-Con, and a version with one neon blue and one neon red Joy-Con.

Nintendo Switch not only connects to a TV, but it also instantly transforms into an on-the-go handheld using its 6.2-inch screen. This allows players to enjoy a full home-console experience anytime, anywhere. The screen includes capacitive multi-touch capabilities for compatible games. Battery life varies depending on the software and usage conditions but is expected to last between 2½ to 6½ hours. For example, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild can be played for roughly three hours on a single charge. While away from home, Nintendo Switch can be charged by plugging the AC adapter into the console’s USB Type-C connector.

Watch the full Nintendo Switch presentation below, the main presentation starts about 34 minutes in:

The Joy-Con controllers offer multiple ways for players to have fun. Two Joy-Con can be used independently in each hand, or together as one game controller when attached to the Joy-Con grip. They can also attach to the main console for use in handheld mode, or be shared with friends to enjoy two-player action in supported games. Each Joy-Con has a full set of buttons and can act as a standalone controller. They also include an accelerometer and gyroscope motion sensor, making independent left and right motion control possible.

The left Joy-Con has a Capture Button that players can press to take screenshots of gameplay to share with friends on social media. The right Joy-Con includes an NFC touchpoint for interaction with amiibo figures, as well as an IR Motion Camera that can detect the distance, shape and motion of nearby objects in specially designed games. For example, it can tell how far away a player’s hand is, and even if the hand is forming a rock, paper or scissors shape. Both Joy-Con include advanced HD rumble, which can provide compatible games with subtle vibrations that are much more realistic than before. The effect is so detailed that a player could, for example, feel the vibration of individual ice cubes colliding inside a glass when shaking a Joy-Con.

Up to 8 Nintendo Switch consoles can be connected wirelessly for local play. The player can place the console upright anywhere by using the built-in stand, then easily share Joy-Con for multiplayer away from the TV. The console also supports online Wi-Fi multiplayer gaming via a new online subscription service that will begin with a free trial at launch. The service includes a smart-device application (available in summer 2017) that will let users invite friends to play online, set play appointments, and chat with one another during compatible games. The fully featured paid service will be available in autumn.